CN102771155B

CN102771155B - Method and apparatus for tracing mobile sessions

Info

Publication number: CN102771155B
Application number: CN201180007699.9A
Authority: CN
Inventors: J·R·卡利普; G·索马德尔; C·A·奥尔特加; H·舒; J·卡尔曼
Original assignee: Alcatel Lucent SAS
Current assignee: Alcatel Lucent SAS
Priority date: 2010-01-29
Filing date: 2011-01-21
Publication date: 2015-07-22
Anticipated expiration: 2031-01-21
Also published as: WO2011094125A1; EP2529570B1; US20110188379A1; US8493870B2; EP2529570A1; CN102771155A

Abstract

A method and apparatus for a method and apparatus for determining a path supporting a mobile session to identify the underlying transport elements supporting the path. In various embodiments mobile session tracing is implemented within a network such as a Long Term Evolution (LTE) wireless network by determining elements in a path supporting a mobile session of a user equipment (UE) having an specific identifier, such as an IP address or terminal identification number.

Description

For following the tracks of the method and apparatus of mobile session

The cross reference of related application

The application submitted to when the application relates to as follows: U.S. Patent application the 12/696th, 353(attorney docket ALU/806247, title is " Method and Apparatus for Analyzing MobileService Delivery " (for analyzing the method and apparatus that Information Mobile Service is sent)), 12/696th, No. 425 (attorney docket ALU/806271, title is " Method and Apparatus for Auditing4G Mobility Networks(is for the method and apparatus of the 4G mobile network that audits) ") and the 12/696th, No. 520 (attorney docket ALU/806290, title for " Method and Apparatusfor Managing Mobile Resource Usage(for manage mobile resources use method and apparatus) "), all these applications are all incorporated herein by reference at this.

Technical field

Briefly, the present invention relates to communication network management field, and more specifically but not exclusively, the present invention relates to the management of cordless communication network.

Background technology

The support of forth generation (4G) wireless network runs a large amount of wireless subscribers (subscriber) of one or more application, wherein in one or more application, business is divided into groups, and according to utilizing multiple network elements of the service quality of different transmission technology and application (QoS) strategy via IP network transport service.Such network is complicated in essence, and such network is rely to Internet Service Provider and they and guaranteed to provide the network-management tool sent of high-quality service to propose new challenge to their mobile subscriber consistently.

Exemplarily, the existing network management system used in the environment of network operation center (NOC) provides the visual or blueprint (blueprint) of institute's on-premise network that can be operated to graphically by user.Particularly, user can select network element with progressively by network element exclusion in its formation sub-element of at least some, thus identify that concrete assembly is to carry out inquiring about or other process, such as, pass through/unsuccessfully inquire about or be suitable for determining the inquiry of other supervisory level whether concrete assembly is working properly.

Although be useful, existing network management system requires the source that the artificial knowledge of a large amount of network topologies and inefficacy (failure) or operation degeneration are possible.

Particularly, for having occurred undesirable operator scheme, in NOC, experienced operator or user understand the element of what type in awareness network or sub-element may cause undesirable operator scheme.Owing to knowing these and knowing the blueprint of institute's on-premise network, experienced operator or user can be studied by graphic user interface, to identify the element or sub-element that are associated with undesirable operator scheme.By the inquiry of state updating message and other supervisory level is sent to these elements or sub-element, experienced operator or user determine which element or sub-element are associated with undesirable operator scheme.Thus experienced operator or user can by rerouting business, issue for degenerate or the repair orders etc. of damage equipment processes undesirable operator scheme.

Unfortunately, few people have the necessary knowledge or skills for this work.In addition, it is desirable to help operator in a few thing, and automatically can perform other practicable work.

Summary of the invention

By for determining to support that these and other defect various of prior art is solved with the method and apparatus of the main transmitting elements identifying support path in the path of mobile session.

In one embodiment, one is used for the method in the path of the mobile session determining subscriber equipment (UE), and described subscriber equipment has identifier associated with it, and described method comprises: use the identifier be associated with UE to determine the IP address of UE; The IP address of UE is used to determine the PDN Gateway (PGW) supporting mobile session; The list using the multiple SGW be associated with PGW and the identifier be associated with UE, determine the gateway (SGW) supporting mobile session; And use the list of carrying supported by SGW and the identifier be associated with UE, determine the eNodeB supporting mobile session.The identifier be associated with UE can comprise the IMSI of UE.

Accompanying drawing explanation

By considering detailed description below and by reference to the accompanying drawings, can easily understanding instruction of the present invention, wherein:

Fig. 1 describes the example wireless communications of the management system comprised for management of wireless communications network;

Fig. 2 describes the exemplary administration system of the management system being suitable for use as Fig. 1;

Fig. 3 describes the high level block diagram that discovery and the correlated process performed by the exemplary administration method of Fig. 2 is described;

Fig. 4 describes the exemplary Information Mobile Service supported by the LTE network of Fig. 1;

Fig. 5 describes an execution mode of the method for execution analysis function;

Fig. 6 describes the exemplary path relevant to EPS of the LTE network of Fig. 1;

Fig. 7 describes an execution mode of the method for performing following function; And

Fig. 8 describes the exemplary mobile session supported by the LTE network of Fig. 1.

For the ease of understanding, in the conceived case, represent identical element common in accompanying drawing with identical Reference numeral.

Embodiment

Be provided for the managerial ability managing forth generation (4G) Long Term Evolution (LTE) wireless network.Managerial ability can comprise one or more analysis tool, examination & verification (audit) instrument, trace tool, implementation tool etc., and its combination.There is provided in the context of management function although main description here and explanation are located in 4G LTE wireless network, be understandable that, also can utilize the management function describing and illustrate here in the wireless network of other types.

Fig. 1 describes the example wireless communications of the management system comprised for management of wireless communications network.Particularly, Fig. 1 describes example wireless communications 100, comprises multiple subscriber equipment (UE) or user's set (UD) 102, Long Term Evolution (LTE) network 110, non-LTE access network 120, IP network 130 and management system (MS) 140.LTE network 110 supports the communication between UE 102 and IP network 130.Non-LTE access network 120 is connected by interface with LTE network 110, utilizes LTE network 110 to access IP network 130 can make the UE be associated with non-LTE access network 120.MS 140 is configured to the various management functions supporting to be used for LTE network 110.

UE 102 is the wireless user device of the wireless network that can access such as LTE network 110.UE 102 can go to one or more carrying sessions of IP network 130 by LTE network 110 support.UE 102 can support control signal, wherein control signal support carrying session.Each UE 102 can have one or more identifier associated with it.Such as, UE 102 can have IMSI International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI), International Mobile Station Equipment Identification (IMEI) and similar identifiers associated with it or mark in one or more.Such as, each in UE 102 can be phone, PDA, computer or other wireless user equipment any.Typically, multiple UD is always had to be movable for each eNodeB.

LTE network 110 is exemplary L TE networks.Those skilled in the art can understand configuration and the operation of LTE network.But, for the sake of completeness, in the context of example wireless communications 100, provide the description of the essential characteristic of LTE network here.

LTE network 110 comprises two eNodeB 111 ₁with 111 ₂(being referred to as eNodeB 111), two gateways (SGW) 112 ₁with 112 ₂(being referred to as SGW 112), packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW) 113, two Mobility Management Entity (MME) 114 ₁with 114 ₂(being referred to as MME 114), "Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF) 115.ENodeB 111 is provided for the Radio Access Interface of UE102.SGW 112, PGW 113, MME 114 and PCRF 115, and because succinct reason and other assembly of abridged, combine evolution block core (EPC) network providing support and use the peer-to-peer services of IP to send.

ENodeB 111 supports the communication being used for UE 102.As shown in Figure 1, each eNodeB 111 supports respective multiple UE 102.Use the LTE-Uu interface be associated with each UE 102 to support the communication between eNodeB 111 and UE 102.ENodeB 111 can support any function being suitable for being supported by eNodeB, such as UE 102 LTE air interface is provided, perform provided for radio resources management, promote the communication between UE 102 and SGW 112, maintain the S1-u interface supported between LTE-Uu interface and eNodeB111 and SGW 112 between mapping etc., and its combination.

SGW 112 supports the communication of eNodeB 111.As shown in Figure 1, SGW 112 ₁support eNodeB111 ₁communication, and SGW 112 ₂support and eNodeB 111 ₂communication.Use S1-u1 interface supports the communication between SGW 112 and eNodeB 111 respectively.S1-u interface supports the user-plane tunnel of each carrying, and the path in handoff procedure between eNodeB switches.S1-u interface can use any suitable agreement, such as, and GPRS Tunnel Protocol-user face (GTP-U).SGW 112 can support any function being suitable for being supported by SGW, such as route and forwarding user data packets are (such as, promote the communication between eNodeB 111 and PGW 113, maintain S1-u interface and by the mapping etc. between the S5/S8 interface supported between SGW 112 and PGW 113), between eNodeB, in handoff procedure, play the effect of mobility anchor, between LTE and other 3GPP technology, play the effect etc. of mobility anchor (anchor), and its combination.

PGW 113 supports the communication of SGW 112.Use each S5/S8 interface to support the communication between PGW 113 and SGW 112.S5 interface provides such as the user-plane tunnel of communication between PGW 113 and SGW 112 and tunnel management, function due to the ambulant SGW of UE again layout etc.S8(its be public land mobile network (PLMN) distortion of S5 interface) interface between PLMN is provided, wherein this interface provides visitor PLMN(VPLMN) in SGW and the PGW in Home PLMN (HPLMN) between user and the connectedness of control plane.S5/S8 interface can use any suitable agreement (such as, GPRS Tunnel Protocol (GTP), mobile agent IP(MPIP) etc., and its combination).PGW 113 promotes to be communicated by SGi interface between LTE network 110 and IP network 130.PGW 113 can support any function being applicable to be supported by PGW, the effect etc. of the mobility anchor between 3GPP and non-3 gpp technology that such as provides packet filtering, provides strategy execution, plays, and its combination.

MME 114 provides mobile management function to support the mobility of UE 102.MME 114 supports eNodeB 111.MME 114 ₁support eNodeB 111 ₁, MME 114 ₂support eNodeB111 ₂.The communication supporting between MME 114 and eNodeB 111 by using respective S1-MME interface, wherein S1-MME interface is provided for the control plane agreement of the communication between MME 114 and eNodeB 111.S1-MME interface can use any suitable agreement or combination of protocols.Such as, S1-MME interface, when using the stream control transmission protocol (sctp) for transmitting, can use radio access network applying portion (eRANAP) agreement.MME 114 supports SGW 112.MME 114 ₁support SGW 112 ₁, and MME 114 ₂support SGW112 ₂.Use respective S11 interface to support the communication between MME 114 and SGW 112.MME 114 ₁with 114 ₂s10 interface is used to communicate.MME 114 can support any function being suitable for being supported by MME; such as within the moment and LTE of the initial connection by UE switching instant for UE select SGW, provide the UE of idle pulley follow the tracks of and paging, bearing activation/deactivation process, support Non-Access Stratum (NAS) signaling (such as; stop NAS signaling, encryption/complete preservation etc. for NAS signaling), the Lawful Interception etc. of signaling, and its combination.MME 114 also can use the S6a interface (for brevity, eliminating HSS and relevant S6a interface) for authenticated user to communicate with home subscriber server (HSS).

PCRF 115 provides dynamic management ability, and service provider by this dynamic management ability ALARA Principle rule relevant to the service provided by LTE network 110, and carries out the relevant rule of charging to the service provided by LTE network 110.Such as, the rule relevant to the service provided by LTE network 110 can be comprised for Bearer Control (such as, control the acceptance of carrying, refusal and termination, control QoS etc. for carrying), service flow control (such as, control the acceptance of service flow, refusal and termination, control the QoS etc. being used for service flow) etc. and rule of its combination.Such as, to the service provided by LTE network 110 is carried out the relevant rule of charging can comprise relate to online charging (such as, time-based charging, the charging based on flow, the charging etc. based on event, these chargings can be depending on the factor of such as COS, wherein provide charging to service), offline charging (such as, such as before service and other correlation function are provided, check the remaining sum of subscriber) etc. and the relevant rule of its combination.PCRF 115 communicates with PGW 113 by using S7 interface.Rule is transferred to the strategy and charge execution function (PCEF) supported by PGW 113 by the support of S7 interface from PCRF 115, wherein strategy and charge execution function provide and perform the strategy of specifying on PCRF 115 and charging regulation.

As shown in Figure 1, the element of LTE network 110 is communicated by the interface between element.Also can be called session by relative to the interface described by LTE network 110.Such as, as shown in Figure 1 and as described herein, provide the communication between eNodeB and SGW by S1-u session, provide the communication between SGW and PGW by S5/S8 session, etc.More generally, the session of LTE network 110 is called S ^*session.Be understandable that, each session S in FIG ^*communication path between representing by each network element of session connection, and therefore, any suitable basic communication ability can be used for the session S between network enabled element ^*.Such as, by using from direct signal wiring to whole network connectedness (such as, wherein by utilizing node, link, agreement and the one or more networks for other communication capacity any supporting communication path to carry out transmission session S ^*) any situation, and any situation of centre, or other suitable communication capacity any, can support session S ^*.

Such as, by using IP Internet Protocol (IP)/multiprotocol label switching (mpls) transmittability, the S1-u session between eNodeB 111 and SGW 112 can be supported, wherein IP Internet Protocol (IP)/multiprotocol label switching (mpls) transmittability comprises Mobile backhaul (backhaul) element that is associated with eNodeB 111 (such as, use service alert router (SAR), service access switch (SAS) etc.), the Mobile backhaul element be associated with SGW 112 (such as, many services edge routers and/or other similar element), and the IP/MPLS aggregation networks that promotion communicates between the Mobile backhaul element be associated with eNodeB 111 and the Mobile backhaul element be associated with SGW 112.Similarly, by using the S1-u session utilizing the IP route network of Routing Protocol (such as, ospf (OSPF), Intermediate System-to-Intermediate System (ISIS) etc.) can support between eNodeB 111 and SGW 112.It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the type of the Primary communication ability of each that can be used for the dissimilar session supporting LTE network 110.

LTE network 110 is supported to access IP network 130 from non-LTE network 120.

The non-LTE network 120 that can be connected with LTE network 110 comprises 3GPP access network 121.3GPP access network 121 can comprise any 3GPP access network (such as, 2.5G network, 3G network, 3.5G network etc.) being suitable for carrying out with LTE network 110 being connected.Such as, 3GPP access network 121 can comprise GSM evolution (EDGE) radio access network (GERAN), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) terrestrial access network (UTRAN) that global system for mobile communications (GSM) strengthens data rate, or be suitable for other 3GPP access network any etc. of being connected by interface with LTE, and its combination.

LTE network 110 is connected with 3GPP access network 121 by service universal grouping wireless service (GPRS) support node (SGSN) 122.Utilize the communication undertaken by S3 interface and SGSN 122, MME 114 ₂support to be used for ambulant control plane function between LTE network 110 and 3GPP access network 121.Such as, S3 interface can carry out exchanging for the ambulant user of 3GPP network insertion and beared information in idle condition and/or active state.The communication with SGSN 122, SGW 112 is used by S4 interface ₂support to be used for ambulant user-plane function between LTE network 110 and 3GPP access network 121.Such as, S4 interface is at SGSN 122 and SGW 112 ₂between provide relevant control and mobility support to user plane.

The non-LTE network that can be connected with LTE network comprises non-3 GPP access network 125.Non-3 GPP access network 125 can comprise any non-3 GPP access network being suitable for carrying out with LTE network 110 being connected.Such as, non-3 GPP access network can comprise 3GPP2 access network (such as, CDMA 2000 (CDMA 2000) network and other 3GPP2 access network), wireless lan (wlan) etc.By using any suitable interface, such as, one or more and its combination in S2a interface, S2b interface, S2c interface etc., provides support ambulant between LTE network 110 and non-3 GPP access network 125.S2a interface is for providing control and mobility support for the user plane of the believable non-3 GPP access to LTE network.By using any suitable agreement, such as MPIP, client mobile IP v4 external agent (FA) pattern (such as, for not supporting the believable non-3 GPP access of MPIP) etc. and its combination, S2a interface can provide the access to non-3 GPP network.S2b interface is for providing control and mobility support for the user plane of the incredible non-3 GPP access to LTE network.S2b interface can be provided as the interface between PGW 113 and the evolution packet data gateway (ePDG) be associated with incredible non-3 GPP access network.S2b interface can use any suitable agreement, such as MPIP or other suitable agreement any.One or more based on client computer Mobile IP colocated pattern by using, S2c interface is controlled and mobility support for the user plane for providing UE to be linked into PGW 113 provides by credible and/or incredible 3GPP access.

LTE network 110 comprises evolved packet system/scheme (EPS).In one embodiment, EPS comprises EPS node (such as, eNodeB 111, SGW 112, PGW 113, MME 114 and PCRF 115) and intercommunication (such as, the S relevant to EPS ^*interface, G ^*interface etc.).Here the interface relevant to EPS can be called the path relevant with EPS.

IP network 130 comprises one or more packet data network, and UE 102 is by packet data network accessible content, service etc.Such as, IP network 130 comprises IP kernel heart net and (optional) other IP network one or more (such as, IP Multimedia System (IMS) network etc.).IP network 130 supports carrying and controlling functions, to support the service being supplied to UE 102 by LTE network 110.IP kernel heart net can provide any function provided by such core net.IP kernel heart net is packet data network, and UE 102 is by these packet data network accessible content, service etc.

IMS network can provide any function that can be provided by IMS network.

MS 140 is provided for the management function managing LTE network 110.MS 140 can communicate with LTE network 110 in any suitable way.Such as, in one embodiment, MS 140 communicates with LTE network 110 by communication path 141, and wherein communication path 141 is not by IP network 130.Such as, in one embodiment, MS 140 communicates with LTE network 110 by communication path 142, and described communication path 142 is by IP network 130.By using any suitable communication capacity to realize communication path 141 and 142.Describe with reference to Fig. 2 and the exemplary administration system being suitable for use as the MS 140 of Fig. 1 is described.

As described here and illustrating, communication system 100 is only exemplary.Be understandable that, although description here and illustrating about the concrete quantity of eNodeB 111, SGW 112, PGW 113, MME 114 and PCRF 115 and arrangement (arrangement), the eNodeB 111 of varying number and/or arrangement, SGW 112, PGW 113, MME 114 and PCRF 115 can be used to realize LTE wireless network.Such as, LTE system typically layering realize, such as wherein each comprising in one or more PGW, PGW of LTE network supports respective multiple SGW, and each in SGW supports respective multiple eNodeB.Can also understand further, although here with reference to supporting particular type interface (i.e. S ^*interface, and other non-S interface) LTE wireless network be described and illustrate, but between the assembly of LTE wireless network and/or the interface of other types many can be supported between the assembly and the assembly of non-LTE wireless network of LTE wireless network.Thus, to describe here and the management function that illustrates is not limited to and uses in any customized configuration of LTE wireless network.

Fig. 2 describes the exemplary administration system of the management system being suitable for use as Fig. 1.As shown in Figure 2, MS 140 comprises processor 210, memory 220, network interface 230 _n, and user interface 230 _i.Processor 210 and memory 220, network interface 230 _nwith user interface 230 _iin each be coupled.

Processor 210 is suitable for and memory 220, network interface 230 _n, user interface 230 _icooperate with support circuit 240, thus provide various management function for LTE network 110.

In general, memory 220 stores and is suitable for providing the data and instrument that use during various management function for LTE network 110.Memory comprises discovery engine (DE) 221, finds database (DD) 222, correlation engine (CE) 223, routing database (PD) 224, analyzer instrument (ANT) 225, audit facility (AUT) 226, trace tool (TT) 227 and fair management instrument (FMT) 228.

In one embodiment, DE 221, CE 223, ANT225, AUT 226, TT 227 and FMT 228 is realized by using software instruction, wherein pass through processor (such as, processor 210) executive software instruction to realize the various management functions describing and illustrate here.

Produce and use each data stored in DD 222 and PD 224 by the engine in memory 220 and any one in instrument and/or combination.Can DD 222 and PD 224 be merged in single database, maybe can be embodied as independently database.Can by well known to a person skilled in the art any arrangement by combination or independently database realizing be individual data storehouse or multiple database.

Although be described about each execution mode be stored in memory 120 in engine, database and instrument and illustrate, but it will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that engine, database and/or instrument can be stored in other memory devices one or more of MS 140 inside and/or MS 140 outside.Can on the inside of MS 140 and/or any quantity of outside and/or the memory device of type distribution engine, database and/or instrument.To additionally describe memory 220 in detail below, comprise each in the engine of memory 220, database and instrument.

Network interface 230 _nbe suitable for promoting to communicate with LTE network 110.Such as, network interface 230 _nbe suitable for receiving information (such as from LTE network 110, be suitable for use in the discovery information determining LTE network topology, the result etc. that LTE network 110 is tested initiated by MS 140, and any out of Memory of the management function that can be performed by MS 140 from the support that LTE network 110 receives by MS 140).Similarly, such as, network interface 230 _nbe suitable for sending information to LTE network 110(such as, be suitable for by MS 140 for determining the discovery request of the information of LTE network topology for finding, for the audit request etc. of auditing to a part for LTE network 110, and LTE network 110 can be sent to support any out of Memory of the management function performed by MS 140 by MS 140).

User interface 230 _ibe suitable for impelling and communicate with one or more teller work station (exemplarily, teller work station 250), one or more user execution can be made for the management function of LTE network 110.Communication is comprised and the communication of teller work station 250 (such as, for presenting the image produced by MS 140), with communicate (such as, for receiving the user interactions with the information presented by teller work station 250) from teller work station 250.To describe although main and what illustrate is direct connection between MS 140 and teller work station 250, but be understandable that, connection between MS 140 and teller work station 250 can be provided by using any suitable basic communication ability, thus teller work station 250 can in position near MS 140(such as, MS 140 and teller work station 250 are all arranged in network operation center (NOC)), or the communication away from MS 140(such as, between MS 140 and teller work station 250 can be transmitted over long distances).

Although mainly describe with reference to a teller work station and illustrate here, but be understandable that, MS 140 can communicate with the teller work station of any suitable quantity, thus any amount of user can perform the management function (such as, the expert team at NOC place accesses MS 140 by the respective teller work station of the various management functions for performing LTE network 110) for LTE network 110.Although mainly describe with reference to teller work station and illustrate, but being understandable that, user interface 230 _ican be suitable for supporting the communication with any miscellaneous equipment, described any miscellaneous equipment is suitable for use in and manages LTE network 110(such as by MS 140, for showing the image that screen display is produced by MS 140 at one or more public NOC, for enabling user realize accessing the remote dummy dedicated network (VPN) of MS140 by remote computer, and its various combination).Those skilled in the art will appreciate that use teller work station by with management system perform management function alternately.

As described herein, memory 220 comprises cooperation to provide DE 221, the DD 222 of the various management functions describing and illustrate, CE 223, PD 224, ANT 225, AUT 226, TT 227 and FMT 228 here.Although here main with reference to by and/or use the concrete function of concrete or some execution in the engine of memory 220, database and/or instrument to be described and to illustrate, but be understandable that, describe here and any management function of illustrating by and/or to use in the engine of memory 220, database and/or instrument any one or more performs.

Engine and instrument can activate in any suitable way.In one embodiment, such as, in response to the manual request initiated by teller work station by user, in response to the automatic request etc. initiated by MS 140, and its various combination, engine and instrument can be activated.

Such as, when automatic activation engine or instrument, can in response to predetermined request, in response to the request initiated based on the process performed at MS 140 by MS 140, to activate engine or instrument (for example, the result instruction such as produced by CE 223 should call ANT 225, the auditing result instruction such as performed by ANT 225 should call TT 227, and the result that the mobile session path such as performed by TT is followed the tracks of indicates should call FMT 228 etc., and its combination).Below the engine of MS 140, database and instrument are described.

In one embodiment, when the engine automatically triggered or instrument start to consume higher than the calculating of threshold level or other resource, engine or automatically triggering subsequently of instrument are retrained.In this embodiment, warning or status indicator are supplied to network manager, described designator indicates 1 affined automatic trigger condition, thus network manager or operating personnel can estimate the direct or artificial control of engine or instrument.

the EPS-path relevant to foundation structure

As previously mentioned, the various execution modes of LTE network 110 comprise and have EPS node (such as, eNodeB 111, SGW 112, PGW 113, MME 114 and PCRF 115) and intercommunication (such as, the S relevant to EPS ^*interface, G ^*interface etc.) evolved packet system/scheme (EPS) foundation structure.Should have before in disclosed context, the interface relevant to EPS is called the path relevant with EPS or simple path here.

Basis of formation structure to provide EPS node that is suitable and necessity, for supporting the wireless service provided by Internet Service Provider.Internet Service Provider manages network, its service product is supplied to wireless/mobile subscriber according to the mode consistent with the hope of client.Such as, wireless/mobile subscriber (such as, buying the user of the standard telephone of various voice, data or other service product, smart phone, computer etc.) wishes close to perfect phone/voice service, closely perfect data, services, trouble-free Streaming Media etc.The third party service provider that user for them buys services package is wished identical content and managerial class interface and between various network, is provided other mechanism of interoperability.The hope of client can comprise the grade of service etc. of the hypothesis of service or desired grade, definition in service-level agreement (SLA).

Various execution mode relates to NMS and to unify instrument, and wherein each interconnection relevant to EPS is correlated with needing the concrete foundation structure supporting this function.Namely, for each path relevant to EPS, be associated with needing the concrete foundation structure supporting this path, wherein this path comprises network element, sub-element, link etc., if they occur losing efficacy or degenerating, inefficacy or the degeneration in the path relevant to EPS of being correlated with can be caused.

By understanding which Business Stream or path comprises element, sub-element or the link supporting element as necessity, so network management system can know which Business Stream or path are subject to the impact of the degeneration/inefficacy of concrete element, sub-element or link.This is particularly useful in the context of analysis tool, and this will be described in detail in other place.

Similarly, occurred losing efficacy or degenerating by understanding which Business Stream or path, then network management system can identify which element, sub-element or link are required for supporting business stream or path.In this manner, network manager reduces the complexity of recognition component, sub-element and/or link, and wherein inefficacy/degeneration elements or the sub-element Business Stream that lost efficacy with appearance or degenerated or path are associated.This is particularly useful in the context of trace tool, and will be described in detail in other place.

In the context of correlation, the service that management system can create for connection each between network element or sub-element represents.

Such as, if data are sent to the destination address be associated with second network element by the specific output port of first network element, and the specific input end mouth of second network element receives data from the source address be associated with first network element, the service that the specific output port that so service-aware (aware) manager creates instruction first network element is connected with the specific input end mouth of second network element represents.If represent that losing efficacy or degenerating appears in the arbitrary port be associated with service, then also be there will be by the service of the stream of packets support between particular port and lost efficacy or degenerated.But, have and represent that arbitrary network element of the port be associated can not detect the inefficacy of other network element usually with service.When the delivery port of first network element lost efficacy, second network element can not recognize that inefficacy occurred.Similarly, when the receiving port of second network element occurs to lose efficacy, first network element can not recognize that inefficacy occurs.

In various embodiments, connection is provided between any one in physical layer (such as, cable or other physical layer link) or service layer (such as, the cloud of broad sense or other service layer's link) or the port in both.

Connect in execution mode a physical layer; if losing efficacy appears in the port (or other sub-element) on first network element (NE), on the 2nd NE, port (or other sub-element) that is corresponding or that connect can show link shutdown (down) state (LLDP).In this case, the 2nd NE perceives the inefficacy of a NE.Connect in execution mode in other physical layer, such perception can be provided in the context of the neighbor networks element of such as router or switch and/or their each seed elements.

In service layer's execution mode, port (or other sub-element) on one NE directly can be connected with the port (or other sub-element) on the 2nd NE, or by one or more NE(namely, the multi-hop between the first and second NE) one or more ports (or other sub-element) connect.In this embodiment, if first or any middle NE on port (or other sub-element) occur losing efficacy or/degenerate, management system may can not perceive due to the mode of operation of NE last in NE sequence and there is inefficacy/degeneration.But, due to administrative skill discussed here and instrument, network manager can be allowed to perceive initial or middle inefficacy/degeneration.The various situations of the behavior comprise congested, local/area and re-route.Briefly, status indicator is green (being designated as suitable operation), but the limited performance of this part of network or degeneration.This network operation that is limited or that degenerate is relevant, and is described by each execution mode described herein.

discovering tool/function

Find that engine (DE) 221 is suitable for the network discovery function being provided for the information found about LTE network 110 usually.In general, DE 221 performs discovery procedure, and wherein collect, obtain, infer and/or produce configuration information, state/operation information and the link information relevant with sub-element with the element forming network in this process, this will be described in detail below.

Discovery procedure can be dynamic, and wherein due to local network adaptation, rerouting, inefficacy, degeneration, periodic maintenance etc., the base components in LTE network, sub-element and link may change in time.Therefore, by ANT 225, AUT 226, TT 227 and FMT 228, any one detects or after the network change that causes, can call DE 221.

Find rank first, network management system (nms) uses any traditional data library information to find to be formed the various elements (with corresponding sub-element) of the network be managed.Namely, some in this discovery comprise use available data library information, and wherein available data library information provides the general blueprint of the network that will be managed.Information in such database comprises the information be associated with the main functional component forming network, the main pipe set up in a network or passage etc.Although describe in detail very much such information, this information does not reflect the network operation of path-level.

Find rank second, network management system is from each network element requests configuration information, state/operation information and the link information supervising the network.The information of request comprises the information for determining the particular exchange, port, buffer memory, agreement etc. supported in the network element of miscellaneous service stream.

Network management system also can utilize existing data message to infer the connection in connection possible between network element and sub-element and managed networks.Such as, can be that describe can the sequence of the network element of the connection of supporting business stream between which by existing database information architecture.But existing database system may not comprise the information that the address information that the particular exchange in the network element of miscellaneous service stream, port, buffer memory, agreement, reception/transmission are divided into groups etc. is supported in identification.

Configuration information comprises the information of function and/or configuration etc. of sub-element of recognition network element, the function of network element and/or configuration, formation network element.Configuration information exemplarily includes, but are not limited to, the information of recognition network component type, the agreement supported by network element, the service supported by network element etc.Configuration information exemplarily comprises the information relating to each seed elements in network element, input port, switch, buffer memory and the output port etc. that are such as associated with the sub-element forming network element.

State/operation information comprises the state/operation information be associated with network element and/or the mode of operation of sub-element that forms network element.State/operation information exemplarily includes, but are not limited to, and provides the information of mode of operation/warning designator, comprises and relates to such as classified counting, information that usage level, assembly pass through the information of the tolerance of/Indication of Losing Efficacy, the error rate (BER) etc.

Link information comprises for determining or infer the information connected between network element and/or sub-element, the data source such as received from network element or its sub-element, the destination etc. of data of being transmitted by network element or its sub-element.Namely, link information is the information provided from the subjective opinion of network element by network element.Network element does not need to have the special information identified from the network element of its reception grouping or the network element to its transmission grouping.

Link information exemplarily comprises, but be not limited to, with receive divide into groups to be associated source address information, with transmit the divide into groups destination address information be associated, the grouping information be associated with stream of packets, the information on services be associated with stream of packets, deep packet testing result data etc.

Find rank the 3rd, network management system use the information found to be formed to represent formed network infrastructure and they separately with the detailed framework of each in the element of various interconnection, sub-element and link.

In general, DE 221 can find any suitable information be associated with LTE network 110, can be referred to as discovery information here, and can be further divided into configuration information, state/operation information and link information.

In one embodiment, such as, DE 221 assembly that finds LTE network 110 and the information that is associated with the assembly of LTE network 110.The assembly of the LTE network 110 found by DE 221 can comprise any assembly, such as network element (EPC network element, non-EPC network element etc.), the sub-element of network element (such as, chassis (chassis), service card, control card, interface, port, processor, memory etc.), the interface/session (such as, LTE-Uu session, the S that communicate between the communication link of interconnection network element, network enabled element ^*session etc.), reference point, function, service etc., and its combination.

Such as, DE 221 can find LTE network 110 network element (such as, EPC network element, it is eNodeB 111, SGW 112, PGW 113, MME 114, PCRF 115 etc. such as; The non-EPC network element communicated is carried out in promotion by session between EPC network element; Etc., and its combination).

Such as, the DE 221 network element configurations information (chassis that such as, can be depending on the network elements types for performing discovery configures, port, processor, memory etc.) in Line cards, Line cards that can find to be associated with the network element of LTE network 110

Such as, DE 221 can find interface/session information (such as, the information be associated with LTE-Uu session, with S ^*the information etc. that session is associated, and its combination).Such as, DE 221 can find reference point (such as, LTE-Uu, S1-u, S1-MME, X2 and other reference point of being associated with eNodeB of LTE network 110; S1-u, S5/S8, S11, S4 and other reference point be associated with SGW; S5/S8, SGi, SGx, S7, S2a, S2b, S2c and other reference point be associated with PGW; S1-MME, S11, S10 and other reference point be associated with MME; S7 and other reference point be associated with PCRF; Etc.).

Such as, DE 221 can discovery feature, service etc., and its combination.Such as, DE 221 can find connective relevant information between the network element of LTE 110, this information can comprise physical connectivity information and logical connectivity information (such as, to the identification of the communication link disposed in LTE network 110, to the identification etc. of the wavelength transmitted by particular fiber in LTE network 110, and its combination).

DE 211 can find any out of Memory be associated with LTE network 110, and wherein this information provides the various management functions that describe and illustrate (such as here for being maybe suitable for use in, by CE232 for determining the path of LTE network 110, by ANT 225 for performing the analysis for LTE network 110, by AUT 226 for performing the audit in LTE network 110, followed the tracks of for performing the mobile session path of mobile session in LTE network 110 by TT 227, by FMT 228 for providing the enforcement function etc. in LTE network 110, and its combination).

DE 221 can find the information (such as, from any suitable source, in any suitable time, use any suitable agreement, in any other suitable format etc., and it combines) be associated with LTE network 110 in any suitable way.

In one embodiment, such as, DE 221 can from the one or more management systems be associated with LTE network 110 (such as, from other management system, such as network inventory system, network feed system etc.), from one or more component management systems (EMS) of each subset, the network element etc. from LTE network 110 of network element of management LTE network 110, and its combination, receives the discovery information be associated with LTE network 110.

In one embodiment, such as, by periodically updating of being initiated by the element of LTE network 110, in response to asked by DE 221 periodically update, in response to the request as required initiated by DE 221 etc. and its combination, DE 221 can receive the information relevant to the initial start of the element of LTE network 110.Periodic request can be configured to use any suitable interval to perform.

In response to any suitable trigger condition (such as, in response to the request manually initiated by teller work station 210 by user, in response to the request in order to obtain the additional discovery information object for performing correlation function initiated by CE 223, in response to the request in order to obtain the additional discovery information object for execution analysis function initiated by ANT 225, in response to the request in order to obtain the additional discovery information object for function of auditing initiated by AUT 226, in response to the request in order to obtain the additional discovery information object for performing following function initiated by AT 227, in response to the request etc. in order to obtain the additional discovery information object for performing enforcement function initiated by FMT 228, and its combination), can initiate to ask (on-demand) as required of DE 221.

DE 221 can use any suitable management and/or communication protocol to receive discovery information.In one embodiment, such as, DE 221 is by Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) trap, network configuration protocol (NETCONF) message, transaction language 1(TL1) one or more and its various combination in message etc., receive discovery information.

The information of discovery is stored in one or more database (such as finding database (DD) 222), to promote to carry out quick obtaining by network operation personnel and/or other user.It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that DD 222 can store discovery information by any suitable form.DD 222 provides the knowledge base of the discovery information used by CE 223, and alternatively, by the knowledge base of discovery information for providing their ANT 225, AUT 226 of management function separately, one or more uses of TT 227 and FMT 228.

correlation engine instrument/function

CE 223 is provided for the correlation of the information supporting the management function describing and illustrate here.CE 223 utilizes schematically to be provided by DE 221 and is stored in configuration information, state/operation information and/or the link information in DD 222, to be correlated with in the path of the network element relative to particular customer Business Stream found, sub-element and chain circuit function and/or support customer service.Namely, by use each in the element, sub-element and the link that represent in network with the framework of their various interconnection, CE 223 is by each customer service, Business Stream and/or relative to needing to support that user's service, the particular element in Business Stream and/or path, sub-element and link are correlated with.

Correlation process can be dynamic, for any path of specifying, due to local network adaptation, rerouting, inefficacy, degeneration, periodic maintenance etc., therefore supports that the base components in this path, sub-element and link can change in time.Therefore, in ANT 225, AUT 226, TT 227 and FMT 228 any one detect or cause network change after, CE 223 can be called.

CE carries out the current expression needed for foundation structure operating to keep supporting to be associated with each customer service, Business Stream and/or path.By providing such expression, the effort of losing efficacy in response to customer service or degenerating can be concentrated on particular element, sub-element and the chain circuit function of the affected customer service of support (such as, by using TT 227).Similarly, the effort of losing efficacy in response to element, sub-element and chain circuit function or degenerating can be concentrated in the particular customer and/or service supported by affected element, sub-element and chain circuit function.

Typically, only the relatively small subset of particular components neutron element needs to support specific path.Therefore, the inefficacy be associated with other sub-element in element can not impact specific path.By each path is only carried out relevant to those elements supported needed for described path, by avoiding the process/storage resource request be associated with the element of inessential (angle from specific path), the process/storage that can reduce to be associated with each path of management is born.

In one embodiment, in order to determine the object of the underlying transport element in the path supporting LTE network 110, CE 223 can process the discovery information be stored in DD 222, wherein discovery information is stored in PD 224.In one embodiment, to determine to by CE 223 and the transfer element information being stored in path in PD 224 relevant comprises: the path relevant with EPS of LTE network 110.Usually, the path relevant to EPS is the path of the transmission mechanism representing peer-to-peer between two EPS reference points, wherein EPS reference point is for realizing one or more agreements of proposing in 4G specification (such as, use GTP, PMIP or other suitable agreement etc. any, and its combination) the end points of any node of LTE network 110.The transfer element information that path is relevant can comprise network element, communication link, subnet, agreement, service, application, layer and its any part.These transfer elements can be managed by network management system or its part.Network management system can know these transfer elements simply.

As described here and illustrating, EPS reference point can comprise: for eNodeB (S1-u, S1-MME, X2 etc.); For SGW 112 (S1-u, S5/S8, S11, Gxs etc.); For PGW (S5/S8, SGi, SGx, S7, S2a, S2b, S2c etc.); For MME (S1-MME, S11, S10 etc.); And for (S7) of PCRF.Therefore, relevant to EPS path corresponds to the various S between eNodeB and EPC node usually ^*session (such as, path when S1-u reference point between eNodeB 111 and SGW 112, path when S5/S8 reference point between SGW 112 and PGW 113, the path etc. when S1-MME reference point between eNodeB 111 and MME 114).

In one embodiment, determined by CE 223 and be stored in the path (such as, different from the path that EPS is correlated with paths) that the transfer element information of being correlated with in the path in PD 224 comprises other type.Such as, the path of other type can comprise following in one or more: (1) forms the path of the subdivision in the path relevant to EPS (such as, when the path using Base communication technical support relevant to EPS, the path forming the subdivision in the path relevant to EPS can be the path be associated with Base communication technology), (2) path in multiple path relevant to EPS is comprised (such as, the path by S1-u and S5/S8 session from eNodeB to PGW, the path etc. passing through LTE-Uu session and S1-u session from UE to SGW), and (3) end-to-end mobile session path (such as, path between UE and IP network).Determined by CE 223 and be stored in the transfer element information of being correlated with in the path in PD 224 to comprise the out of Memory relevant to all kinds path.

Determined by CE 223 and be stored in the transfer element information of being correlated with in the path in PD 224 to determine by using any suitable process.

CE 223 be suitable for find LTE network 110 assembly between carry out directly related.Such as, CE 223 can from discovery information determine particular port eNodeB with on service router for providing the particular port of backhaul to be connected between eNodeB and its SGW.Such as, from discovery information, CE 223 can determine that the special S1-u reference point eNodeB 111 and the special S1-u reference point on SGW 112 are coupled.Such as, CE 223 can determine from discovery information, for above the SGW 112, eNodeB specified to above the special S1-u interface mappings to PGW of SGW 112 side to the special S5/S8 reference point of SGW112 side.Be understandable that, above-described embodiment be only by CE223 carry out multiple may be correlated with in sub-fraction.CE 223 is suitable between the discovery assembly of LTE network 110, carry out any being correlated with, wherein this relevant comprehensive visual angle (such as, passing through all paths of application layer and whole in centre from physical layer) that CE 223 can be made to determine whole LTE network on all the layers.

CE 223 is suitable for the deduction carrying out relating to association between the discovery assembly of LTE network 110.Such as, CE 223 can have information that particular data carries out transmitting via the S1-u interface of eNodeB from the particular port eNodeB by instruction, can have the information that the particular port of the S1-u interface of instruction by SGW on SGW receives particular data, and the eNodeB port that this information relevant with data can be used to connect in logic for being undertaken communicating by S1-u interface with deduction and SGW port.Such as, CE 223 can have interface on instruction eNodeB by physical link, by route network or information of being directly connected with SGW by VPN service (L2, L3).

In one embodiment, network manager (CE 223 can operate in network manager) comprises in fact the full detail relevant from different EPS path (comprising S1-u) equity.By described peer-to-peer information, the node of CE 223 identifiable design on each end in path, and thus identify or check corresponding neighbor node.By information of neighbor nodes, CE 223 thus identifiable design or check next group neighbor node etc.

This identify in order or the information of neighbor nodes checking the process of each subsequent group of neighbor node advantageously to use to obtain gradually to reduce (or filtration) candidate neighbor, thus form less list.This process, especially when being combined with the Topology Discovery profile (template) selected by operator, reduces the complexity and processing resource allocation that are associated with correlated process.

Topology Discovery profile or template have " hint " of the instruction fragment of path type, Information Mobile Service, pathway or Information Mobile Service, the node type of fragment end points etc. or the association in other path instructed.Such as, particular network operator typically can carry out build path according in two or three standard techniques.In this case, operator can provide the hint relevant with the structure relating to path interested.

Topology Discovery profile or template are particularly useful when attempting being difficult to of management cloud or network administrative section (part for the network such as rented from third party's network provider).Such as, in order to fill the service intervals in network, Virtual network operator can rent network service from third party.Unfortunately, although according to service level agreement, third party has to provide the service of renting, and third party is not typically for the Virtual network operator of rental service is provided in any ability of supporting to rent fundamentals of management structure in third party's network of network service.

In one embodiment, the hint of the topology that the instruction providing third party's Virtual network operator of rental service to be provided for support rental service is possible or foundation structure or profile/template.Namely, Virtual network operator select according to the topology of limited quantity or foundation structure select in one or morely provide service.This information can be supplied to tenantry by Virtual network operator, thus the service-aware manager of tenantry renting part and more clearly can understand the special infrastructure components of support path by its network.

Such as, the S1-u that Virtual network operator can indicate or " hint " is special corresponds to special discovery profile or template number, and each number represents special topology or foundation structure.Such as, first hint or template can provide: the connection between eNodeB and SGW is by the fragment of specific number or providing of link, wherein each fragment or link correspond to respective fragment or Linktype, and wherein each fragment or link interconnect with eNodeB, switch, router and other network element in a particular manner.Such as, operator's hint or profile can indicate the first fragment to be pure route fragment, and the second fragment is physical link (such as, LLDP can provide peer-to-peer automatically), and the 3rd fragment is E-pipeline (P2P L2VPN) etc.Other hint or template can provide different topologys, connecting arrangement etc.

When finding path from supervising the network element, line of reasoning footpath, correlation engine beginning.When finding path, correlation engine calculates, infer and/or find in addition to support the various infrastructure components in this path, sub-element and link.

In one embodiment, the initial S1-u reference point in SGW is found.When finding any reference point or S-peer-to-peer, form corresponding S-path.

In various embodiments, service-aware manager is by area or region or pass through each node or network element, provides the discovery of whole network at once and/or is correlated with.In this mode, the operation lifetime by service-aware manager finds (or re-synchronization) EPS peer-to-peer.Such as, can according to finding or creating EPS peer-to-peer according to the event (such as, snmp trap or At All Other Times) that instruction has created new EPS peer-to-peer on NE.Schematically, this can occur in operator new eNodeB is installed just in a network and the new eNodeB installed becomes the peer-to-peer of existing (and carried out manage) SGW time.

Be understandable that, above-described embodiment be only by CE 223 carry out multiple may infer in a few.CE 223 is suitable for carrying out relating to the relevant any deduction to the discovery assembly of LTE network 110, with the comprehensive visual angle (such as, passing through all paths of application layer and whole in centre from physical layer) making CE 223 can determine whole LTE network at whole layer.

The path determined by CE 223 can have any suitable routing information associated with it.In one embodiment, such as, and the routing information that is associated of the path relevant to EPS can comprise any information that the Base communication ability in the path of being correlated with EPS is supported in instruction.Such as, the routing information for the path relevant to EPS can comprise the S identifying the end points forming the path of being correlated with EPS ^*the network element of reference point, identification support path (such as, router, switch etc.), the port identified on the network element of support path, the IP interface identifying support path, the information of specifying the configuration of the IP interface of support path, specifying the port arrangement (such as, administration configuration, operative configuration etc.) etc. of the network element of support path and its combination.

Such as, routing information for the path relevant to EPS can comprise the out of Memory be associated with a part for the underlying communication network supporting the path of being correlated with EPS, such as, identification to the communication link between network element, the identification to the logical path on communication link are (such as, such as support the specific MPLS path in the path relevant to EPS, support the specific wavelength etc. in the optical fiber in the path relevant to EPS) etc., and its combination.In one embodiment, such as, the routing information be associated with other type path can comprise in the routing information be described about EPC path some or all, the routing information (can be depending on the path of other type) of other type etc., and its combination.In such execution mode, the routing information be associated with path can comprise other suitable information any, its can for dissimilar path, for identical type different paths etc. and change.

In one embodiment, CE 223 can support the process added, to support by the one or more correlation functions provided in instrument (namely, ANT 225, AUT 226, TT 227 and FMT 228).In one embodiment, CE 223 can process the relevant transfer element information in the discovery information be stored in DD 222 and/or the path be stored in PD 224, to support by ANT 225(such as, for providing analytic function), AUT 226(such as, for providing audit function), TT 227(such as, for providing following function) and FMT 228(such as, implements function for providing) in one or more management functions provided.In one embodiment, CE 223 can process the management function information produced by one or more instrument, with the management function supporting to be provided by one or more instrument (such as, CE 223 process representative to be used by this instrument or by the information of the one or more instruments providing other instruments one or more of management function to use).CE 223 can provide other correlation function any of the various management functions being suitable for providing and/or support to describe and illustrate here.

In various embodiments, serve tenantry etc. according to common element, sub-element, link, service, provider, third party, path is grouped in together in logical construction.

Bag (bundle) can be the logic groups in the path of shared mutual component, such as common terminal element, starting point element etc.In this context, the All Paths for identifying the failure effect by mutual component is wrapped.Namely, multiple path definitions that the particular network element at other network elements multiple from common type can be stopped are bag or group.Embodiment comprises " carrying out with SGWx whole eNodeB elements of communicating " (wherein SGWx represents concrete SGW); Or " carrying out whole SGW of communicating with PGWx " (wherein PGWx represents concrete PGW).The public network element connected according to them or sub-element, definable these or other bag or group are can identify network element or the sub-element of analogous location fast.

The logical groups in the path of shared any common structure or entity can be summarised as by bag, such as, the group of paths be associated is provided with public bill entity, dedicated network provider, service-specific etc.In this context, wrap for identifying the adhoc basis structure (and use) providing with bill entity, network provider, service etc. and be associated.Internet resources are rented to being useful especially in third-party context by this under service level agreement, and wherein it needs monitoring to use and supports by the service of third part purchase.Embodiment comprises " grappling in the enodeb provide whole Information Mobile Services of service for special APN (APN) " (such as telecommunications or cable companies); Or " for special services provider provides whole SGW or PGW of service ".In the embodiment of service provider, third party service provider can rent space on one or more eNodeB, think its mobile subscriber provide service (such as, by multiple eNodeB each on the frequency of special reservation).

Relevant information is stored in one or more database, to promote the quick obtaining of network operation personnel and/or other user, and such as routing database (PD) 224.PD 224 stores the path associated transport component information determined by CE 223.The transfer element information that PD 224 can be correlated with by any suitable form store path and the routing information be associated.PD 224 provides by the path of one or more uses in ANT 225, the AUT 226 for providing their respective management functions, TT 227 and FMT 228 and the knowledge base of network element relevant information.

Fig. 3 describes the high level block diagram that discovery and the correlated process performed by the exemplary administration system of Fig. 2 is described.As shown in Figure 3, and herein with reference to the description of Fig. 2, the discovery performed by exemplary MS 140 and correlated process 300 are performed by DE 221, DD 222, CE 223 and PD 224.DE 221 finds the information be associated with LTE network 110, and discovery information is stored in DD 222, discovery information is supplied to CE 223 by DE 221 and DD 222, for CE 223 for the discovery information in the path identifying LTE network is correlated with, and the path associated transport component information be associated with the identification path of LTE network is stored in PD 224.Discovery and the correlated process 300 of Fig. 3 can be understood better by referring to Fig. 2.

As shown in Figure 2, each in ANT 225, AUT 226, TT 227 and FMT 228 provides various management function for LTE network 110.

The EPS element of LTE network is building up in Information Mobile Service by ANT 225.In one embodiment, EPS element comprises intercommunication (such as, the S relevant with EPS between EPS network element (such as, eNodeB, SGW, PGW, MME, PCRF and/or other network element relevant to EPS any) and EPS network element ^*session, G ^*session etc.).Such as, relative to the LTE network 110, ANT 225 of Fig. 1, the EPS element of LTE network 110 is building up to (such as, eNodeB 111, SGW 112, PGW 113, MME 114, PCRF 115, S in Information Mobile Service ^*session etc.).In this manner, Information Mobile Service is the expression of the intercommunication (interconnectivity) relevant to EPS between EPS network element and EPS network element.

Information Mobile Service is the list that each network element stores connected every other network element.Therefore, for specific eNodeB, Information Mobile Service storage comprises the list of SGW and PGW, and wherein eNodeB and SGW communicates with PGW.Similar, for specific SGW, Information Mobile Service storage comprises the list of eNodeB and PGW, and wherein SGW and eNodeB communicates with PGW.Other public or anchor (anchor) elements can be used to form such bag.Specific eNodeB is considered as anchor or public same element by these embodiments respectively, and specific SGW is considered as anchor or public same element.Other anchor or common element can be defined in the context of various execution mode.

By using any suitable information, the EPS element of LTE network 110 can be building up in Information Mobile Service (such as by ANT 225, use and the underlying transport element relating to the path relevant with EPS from PD 224, by the discovery information etc. of process from DD 222, and its combination).In one embodiment, ANT 225 can be configured to automatically create Information Mobile Service using the region as the LTE network 110 found by DE 221.

analyser function/instrument

Fig. 4 describes the exemplary Information Mobile Service supported by the LTE network of Fig. 1.Particularly, Fig. 4 describes the example communication system 400 identical in fact with the example communication system 100 of Fig. 1, except Fig. 4 further describes the path be associated with Information Mobile Service 402.

As shown in Figure 4, exemplary Information Mobile Service 402 comprises eNodeB 111 ₁, SGW 112 ₁, PGW113, eNodeB 111 ₁with SGW 112 ₁between S1-u interface, SGW 112 ₁and the S5/S8 interface between PGW 113, the SGi interface between PGW 113 and IP network 130, eNodeB 111 ₁with MME 114 ₁between S1-MME interface, SGW 112 ₁with MME 114 ₁between S1-u interface, the S7 interface between PGW 113 and PCRF 115.Indicated by the solid linely in the diagram mark exemplary Information Mobile Service 402.Selectable execution mode such as can comprise MME 114 ₁and PCRF115.

ANT 225 service provider of LTE network can be made to have delivery of services distribution network crosses the state of the eNodeB access node at LTE network edge current visual angle from IP kernel heart Netcom.ANT 225 can make the service provider of LTE network on logical level, monitor the state of LTE network.This may hinder the problem of the distribution of mobile service in LTE network or potential problems to be useful for diagnosis effectively.Such as, the equipment of LTE network can be to operate, but can hinder the distribution of mobile service when error configurations on SGW.

ANT 225 can make the service provider of LTE network identify rapidly and easily, which assembly of LTE network 110 is responsible for the problem identified in the Information Mobile Service rank of LTE network 110 or potential problems, such as, by identifying which EPS element is responsible for problem or potential problems, and then identify which assembly in responsible EPS element is responsible for problem or potential problems further.

Such as, this can be included in the concrete EPS network element of Information Mobile Service level identification ownership of issues, and and then on the EPS network element of ownership of issues, excavates downwards the assembly of the EPS network element to identify ownership of issues.The assembly of EPS network element can comprise any assembly (such as, service card, control card, port, interface, processor, memory etc.) of EPS network element.

Such as, this can be included in concrete EPS interconnection (such as, S of Information Mobile Service level identification ownership of issues ^*session, G ^*session etc.), and and then on the EPS network element of ownership of issues, excavate (drilling down) downwards to identify the assembly of the EPS interconnection of ownership of issues.The assembly of EPS interconnection can comprise any assembly.Be understandable that, the EPS interconnection described about ANT 225 correspond to describe about CE 223 and relevant to the underlying transport element such as provided by PD 224 path relevant with EPS.Therefore, the assembly of EPS interconnection can comprise the assembly (namely, for the path relevant to EPS provides transfer element and the assembly of Base communication ability) be associated with the path relevant to EPS of discussing about CE 223 and PD 224.

Such as, the assembly in relevant to EPS path can comprise: the S forming the end points in the path of being correlated with EPS ^*reference point, network element are (such as, router, switch etc.), logical path (such as, such as supporting the specific wavelength etc. in the optical fiber in the path that the specific MPLS path in the path relevant to EPS, support and EPS are correlated with) between communication link between the assembly (such as, Line cards, port, interface etc.) of network element, network element, network element on communication link etc. and its combine.

ANT 225 excavates downwards in any suitable manner on EPS element, wherein said mode can be depending on the type of the EPS element expecting module information (such as, the discovery information be stored in DD 222 is used to determine the assembly of EPS network element, use the transfer element, sub-element, system and the out of Memory that are stored in and are correlated with in the path in PD 224 to determine assembly of EPS introductory path etc., and its combination).

ANT 225 can perform one or more management function for the Information Mobile Service determined by ANT 225.

In one embodiment, ANT 225 can collect the statistics (such as, the end-to-end statistics be associated with Information Mobile Service, statistics of being associated with each assembly and/or the subset of components of Information Mobile Service etc., and its combination) be associated with Information Mobile Service.ANT 225 can analyze the statistics of the collection for identifying congested appearance or the congested appearance be associated with Information Mobile Service on the horizon be associated with Information Mobile Service.ANT 225 can determine the scheme of solution or pre-congestion prevention on one's own initiative based on such analysis.

In one embodiment, ANT 225 can initiate audit for verifying Information Mobile Service (such as, visual angle in order to ensure the current Information Mobile Service kept by ANT 225 is accurately, do not need to upgrade, in order to when needing such renewal for upgrading the visual angle etc. of Information Mobile Service, and its combination).ANT225 can analyze the result of audit like this to determine to build the mode of (or discovery) LTE network, to find the topology in LTE network and/or configuration error, and further, for advising the improvement be associated.

In one embodiment, ANT 225 can initiate to test for the Operations, Administration and Maintenance (OAM) of Information Mobile Service.In this embodiment, OAM test can be initiated in any suitable way.Such as, in response to any suitable trigger condition (such as, each regular time table, in response to detecting the Indication of Losing Efficacy be associated with the assembly etc. of the part that can form Information Mobile Service, etc., and its combination), OAM tests and can manually, automatically initiate.Such as, for specific Information Mobile Service produces OAM test, and the different time of a day is then arranged in, to monitor the state of Information Mobile Service.The result that ANT 225 can be configured to use this OAM to test is to the region identifying that in LTE network 110, contention level is higher.

ANT 225 can be Information Mobile Service and performs failure analysis.In one embodiment, such as, event detected in response in the sub-component of Information Mobile Service, ANT 225 can determine the effect of event on Information Mobile Service.Any event (such as, EPS network element, EPS interface etc.) that ANT 225 identifiable design is associated with the assembly of Information Mobile Service.By using the message be associated with any suitable management agreement of such as snmp trap, TL1 message etc., ANT 225 can identify event in any suitable way.ANT 225 can classify according to the event of their importance by detection.Importance can be determined based on any suitable parameter or multiple parameter (such as, event location, event type etc., and its combination).Such as, due to the user of the greater number that PGW supports than eNodeB, therefore compared to the event be associated with PGW, can think that the event be associated with eNodeB is not too important.

ANT 225 can initiate the generation of the image being suitable for being shown, provide the visual representation of event (such as, the position of event, the scope etc. of event) to service provider network technical staff.

ANT 225 also tests (such as, Ping, traceroute (traceroute) etc.) for the Information Mobile Service that is associated with event initiates one or more OAM, to determine to provide the additional information of the better understanding on event range and impact.ANT 225 manually and/or automatically (such as, as a part for error detection, the part etc. that the plan as OAM test is initiated, and its combination) can initiate such OAM test.

ANT 225 can perform other the suitable management function any be associated with the Information Mobile Service determined by ANT 225.

In general, after network manager finds foregoing network element and their connection, analyzer instrument can be called.The network element of service-aware manager identification LTE type, such as PGW, SGW, eNodeB, MME, PCRF, SGSN etc.Wherein mainly interested is PGW, SGW and eNodeB.Be the EPS path with coherent reference point on network element between these network elements, wherein EPS path/reference point S1-u, S5, SGi etc. represent.Therefore, what store in a database is the set of modular assembly, the type " network element " for PGW, SGW, eNodeB etc., the type " connector " for EPS path.

After discovery network element and connector, by connecting or link the modular assembly of two types (namely, network element and connector) example, such as by special eNodeB enjoy the user of service and the data flow received from IP kernel heart net at PGW and other serve between network element and the sequence of connector, service-aware manager defines multiple Information Mobile Service.Therefore, in one embodiment, Information Mobile Service comprises structure and packaging (wrapper), and it comprises the link sequence of network element and connector.Can define Information Mobile Service according to particular customer, specific eNodeB, specific APN etc.Information Mobile Service can comprise one or more examples of EPS on network element, such as in single or public affairs with one or more SGW or PGW on network element.

After definition Information Mobile Service, can analyze Information Mobile Service or test.Such test can relate to the assembly forming Information Mobile Service, the end points etc. be associated with Information Mobile Service.Such test can relate to the specific part of specific components or form the end points of Information Mobile Service.

In one embodiment, by from form specific Information Mobile Service separately or each Information Mobile Service modular assembly of Information Mobile Service group collect statistical information, independent Information Mobile Service or Information Mobile Service group are analyzed.Namely, by management system, Information Mobile Service analysis request (artificial generation or automatically generation) is interpreted as the request of collecting the statistical information relevant with each modular assembly (such as, network element and connector) forming Information Mobile Service.

Such as, suppose that Information Mobile Service comprises the multiple network element and connector arranged in the following order: " eNodeB, S1-u, SGW, S5, PGW ".In response to the analysis request of Information Mobile Service, analysis tool is collected and is formed each assembly of Information Mobile Service (namely, element and connector) statistical value that is associated, thus provide thus Information Mobile Service is exemplarily described mode of operation, form the assembly of Information Mobile Service, the end points of Information Mobile Service and/or relate to the data of out of Memory of Information Mobile Service.

In one embodiment, such as ping test (such as, ICMP ping test), the OAM test of traceroute test etc. can run on Information Mobile Service, to guarantee the component operable of formation Information Mobile Service and not degenerate, the connectedness existed between each assembly, test result obey the test result expected, such as or other history/statistical representation average based on the slip (rolling) of existing test result.In this mode, OAM test guarantees that Information Mobile Service is exercisable, and and then obtains for predicting the degeneration of one or more assemblies or the statistical information of inefficacy that form Information Mobile Service.Such as, OAM test can comprise every 15 minutes, 2 hours or other predetermined time section perform the test of specific Information Mobile Service.

Whole tests that Information Mobile Service or Information Mobile Service part perform can return some results.Result should fall into the range of results that can accept or expect.The result returned outside this scope (or not returning completely) may indicate the direct or existing problem of Information Mobile Service assembly, sub-component or end points.Such as, the ping test of the time of delay of between PGW and eNodeB 1 second is indicated can to indicate the problem of the Information Mobile Service between these two end points.By carrying out " pinging " operation in order to each network element in connection, can to pinpoint the problems fast the assembly (such as, returning results thereafter the assembly changing to the time of delay of 1 second from normal lower length of delay) of the formation Information Mobile Service near position.

Along with passage of time, the change in the returning results of one or more test also can indicate existing problem or Problems existing in the future.Along with passage of time, by following the tracks of the result of these tests, and along with the time by test result to degeneration and/or lost efficacy relevant, can predict and the operating characteristic that the degeneration that will occur and/or inefficacy are associated.

In one embodiment, in response to the specific operational characteristics of network, the manual request of protos test suite PROTOS (test suite), the automatic request etc. for protos test suite PROTOS, analysis tool is automatically illustrated test or protos test suite PROTOS.Protos test suite PROTOS is included in the multiple predetermined test that one or more Information Mobile Service performs immediately or periodically, wherein expects specific test result scope.The network element of protos test suite PROTOS record and test, test and coupling assembling, and the various parameters that any auxiliary data expected is associated (such as, other network operation characteristic of such as bandwidth use, the error rate etc., it is for being associated time dependent test result data with particular problem).

According to the seriousness, the importance causing the networking component of warning, alert type etc. of warning, call test or protos test suite PROTOS.As an embodiment, compared to the similar warning initiated by PGW, the warning initiated to its Information Mobile Service by eNodeB is so unimportant.Warning triggering can in various embodiments for calling test or protos test suite PROTOS.In general, trigger condition can with starting point parameter (such as, the initial network element be associated with trigger condition or communication link) and/or task parameters (such as, forming one or more tasks at least partially of the appropriate response to trigger condition) be associated.

Therefore, the logical expressions of modular assembly of " network element " and " connector " that such as form Information Mobile Service can be audited accurately to the function realized in the context of various execution mode, analyzed and follow the tracks of.

Fig. 5 describes an execution mode of the method for execution analysis function.Particularly, Fig. 5 describes the flow chart of the method 500 being applicable to manage the network comprising multiple network element.

In step 510, for each network element be managed in network, the method obtains respective configuration information, state information and link information.

In step 520, use the information obtained, determine to connect or link, wherein between part or all of network element, transmit data by connection or link.

In step 530, will represent that the data at least partially that the network element of the determination of the network element information obtained connects store in a computer-readable storage medium, such as database or other memory element.

In step 540, support the element needed for each in multiple service in recognition network, the network element identified comprises this and determines, wherein determines at least to comprise managed network element and communication link.

Although be mainly introduced in about the execution mode being performed such management function by ANT 225, but be understandable that, in these management functions any one can by other engine one or more of MS 140 and/or instrument, carry out other management systems one or more (being omitted for brevity) communicated etc. with MS 140 and it combines to perform.

audit unit function/instrument

AUT 226 provides the auditability of auditing to LTE network 110.AUT 226 can initiatively audit to the network infrastructure of LTE network 110, maybe may hinder the network failure of end user's business (fault) or potential network failure to identify and to process to hinder.The U.S. Patent application of CO-PENDING _ _ _ _ number (attorney ALU/806271, name is called " method and apparatus for the 4G mobile network that audits ") describe the various execution modes of AUT 226 in more detail, it be all incorporated herein with way of reference.

Briefly, AUT 226 supports the fast detecting to network failure or potential network failure, the impact analysis for the potential impact of the impact or potential network fault of determining fault and the correction to any network failure or potential network fault.AUT 226 is provided in the ability that any grain size category execution degree of depth network health or sane (sanity) check in LTE network 110, such as, for checking port, Line cards, physical connectivity, logical connectivity, S ^*reference point, S ^*the health of the end-to-end mobile session of session, network path, end user etc., and the health of its combination.AUT 226 can provide significant advantage when managing LTE network, because this network is complicated in essence, and affected by the height be usually difficult to the mobile subscriber data network failure relevant with the qos policy of application, wherein mobile subscriber data by IP network transmitted in packets with the multiple network elements by utilizing different tranmission techniques.

In one embodiment, AUT 226 supports to audit to the intercommunication in LTE network 110.Intercommunication audit can comprise active monitoring connectedness, test is connective, the audit function similar with execution.

In one embodiment, in LTE network 110, the audit of intercommunication comprises: the intercommunication between eNodeB and the EPC node of audit LTE network 110 (such as, eNodeB 111, SGW 112, PGW 113, between MME 114 and PCRF 115, by the S be associated ^*interface).In this embodiment, in LTE network 110, the audit of intercommunication comprises: one or more EPS introductory path of audit LTE network 110.

AUT 226 according to demand and plan testing results, to determine to support whether the structure in various path operates normally, such as, can indicate normal running (such as, excessively do not use, do not have too high BER etc.) in predetermined operational parameters.

In one embodiment, for call the preferred starting point of AUT 226 be SGW place stop reference point (instead of eNodeB).Known to discovery/correlated process, provide at SGW and its between eNodeB of service and there is specific path, connection or service.Whether path, connection or service can be understood further by other equipment, such as router, switch etc.

AUT 226 also can be used for testing with basic foundation structure with or multiple parameters of being associated of path.In addition, can perform test from first or initial reference point with incremental mode, each follow-up infrastructure device wherein in path is easy to test from AUT 226.Simply test for one and be used for determining, whether the input port be associated with the infrastructure device of support path and/or output port have function or do not have function.This can by sending to each infrastructure device, having been come by each transmission in test post or vector, checkout message or the multiple input/output end port of vector of path by query messages.

In one embodiment, the user guided process undertaken by AUT 226 is provided.In this embodiment, other instruction or user's hint of possible infrastructure topology is provided, the non-administrative section request for test of such as third party/network.In this context, the possible topology that (hint) can comprise suggestion or be utilized in its network portion by third party is implied.

As described herein, usually, EPS introductory path is the path of the transmission mechanism of the peer-to-peer represented between two EPS reference points, wherein EPS reference point be the terminal of any node of LTE network 110 for realizing the one or more agreements proposed in 4G specification (such as, use GTP, PMIP or other suitable agreement etc. any, and its combination).As described herein with illustrate, EPS reference point can comprise: for eNodeB(S1-u, S1-MME, X2 etc.); For SGW 112(S1-u, S5/S8, S11, Gxs etc.); For PGW(S5/S8, SGi, SGx, S7, S2a, S2b, S2c etc.); For MME(S1-MME, S11, S10 etc.); With for PCRF(S7).Therefore, EPS introductory path corresponds to the various S between eNodeB and EPC node usually ^*session (path such as, when S1-u reference point between eNodeB 111 and SGW 112, the path when S5/S8 reference point between SGW 112 and PGW 113, the path etc. when S1-MME reference point between eNodeB 111 and MME 114).

As described herein, the EPS introductory path of any suitable Base communication technical support LTE network 110 can be used.Such as, the S1-u path by using whole IP/MPLS networks that may comprise router, switch, communication link, agreement etc. can support between eNodeB 111 and SGW 112.Such as, the S5/S8 path by using IP network shape (mesh) backhaul network comprising edge router, core router, communication link, agreement etc. can support between SGW 112 and PGW 113.Each S can be supported by using any suitable Base communication technology ^*path.In this embodiment, audit can comprise each S between different interconnection technique and the EPC node supporting LTE network 110 ^*the transport layer of session is correlated with.

Fig. 6 describes the exemplary EPS introductory path of the LTE network of Fig. 1.As shown in Figure 6, exemplary EPS introductory path 600 is (exemplarily, at eNodeB111 between eNodeB and SGW ₂with SGW 112 ₂between) S1-u path.Exemplary EPS introductory path 600 comprises eNodeB 111 ₂on S1-u interface 602 _awith SGW 112 ₂on S1-u interface 602 _z.Use IP/MPLS backhaul network 610 to support exemplary EPS introductory path 600, wherein IP/MPLS backhaul network 610 is the mesh networks comprising multiple service aware routers (SAR) and/or service-aware switch (SAS) 612.SAR/SAS 612 comprises the port 613 typically with management associated with it and mode of operation.SAR/SAS 612 is interconnected by multiple communication link 614.Be understandable that, other communication technology any being suitable for the path supported between the element of LTE network 110 can be used to provide exemplary EPS introductory path 600.

The audit to EPS introductory path can be performed in any suitable way.In one embodiment, such as, can comprise the following steps the audit of EPS introductory path: (a) determines the current configuration in path (such as, perform finding in DD 222 that the process of information is to determine current configuration, CE223 is to determine current configuration etc. in request, and its combination), b the last known configurations of () way to acquire (such as, other suitable source any from PD 224 information or such information), c () is relative to the last known configurations in path, the current configuration in checking path, if the current configuration in (d) path and finally known configuration with initiate to match (such as to the test in path in LTE protocol grade, initiate GTPping test, MPIP ping test, or based on other the suitable test any of the agreement for support path or multiple test), if e the protocol level test in () path is successful, then check the configuration of IP interface, wherein check the configuration of IP interface can comprise checking routing configuration, test transmission connectedness between the IP interface that is associated in the EPS reference point in the path of the other level of IP (such as, use ICMP ping or other suitable power of test) etc., if f the configuration of () IP interface is successful, then verify the controlled state of port, if and the controlled state of (g) port is checked successfully, then verify the operable state of port.

tracker function/instrument

TT 227 is configured to provide mobile session tracking ability.Mobile session tracking ability can by the path of the mobile session of wireless network tracks UE.

Simply, TT 227 can determine the path of the mobile session by wireless network, and selectively, determines and the additional information that mobile session is associated.Mobile session tracking ability can make wireless service provider by the determination path execution management function of wireless network based on mobile session.

TT 227 is configured to the path of the mobile session determined by LTE network 110.TT 227 also can perform other function be associated with the mobile session determined by TT 227, such as, determine and the additional information that mobile session is associated, and performs the management function etc. being used for mobile session, and its combination.

TT 227 only can provide mobile session tracking ability, or also provides mobile session tracking ability except other management function one or more.TT 227 is configured to pass the path that wireless network determines mobile session.Also TT 227 can be configured to perform other function being used for mobile session.Such as, TT 227 can be configured to determine to the additional information that mobile session is associated, by relevant with out of Memory for mobile session information, perform various management functions (such as, monitor mobile session, utilize mobile session diagnostics problem, utilize mobile session to predict problem, utilize mobile session to the problem of correcting and to perform in the similar management function of mobile session one or more) of being used for mobile session etc.Selectively, TT 227 can be configured to or is suitable for performing the various combinations of function described herein.

Although mainly describe in the execution mode of the function about the mobile session tracking ability performed by TT 227 and illustrate, but be understandable that, by TT 227 and in conjunction with other engine one or more of MS 140 and/or instrument, by for information being supplied to TT 227 to be provided one or more other engine and/or instrument etc. and its combination of the MS 140 of the various functions of mobile session tracking ability by TT227, performing mobile session tracking ability and/or supporting the various functions of mobile session tracking ability.

Follow the tracks of with mobile session path the information be associated by using, TT 227 can be configured to or perform wider management function, such as, diagnose wider network problem, predicts, performs network optimization action to wider network problem, and other management function.

By referring to Fig. 7 and Fig. 8, TT 227 determines the path of mobile session operation by LTE network 110 can be understood better, and selectable, the operation of the operation determining the additional information be associated with mobile session and/or the management function being provided for mobile session.Fig. 8 describes the exemplary mobile session supported by the LTE network of Fig. 1.Particularly, Fig. 8 describes the example communication system 800 identical in fact with the example communication system 100 of Fig. 1, except Fig. 8 further describes the path be associated with mobile session 802.

As shown in Figure 8, mobile session 802 is movable in UE 802.Mobile session 802 can be the data, audio frequency, video etc. supported, and its combination.Mobile session 802 passes LTE network 110 from UE 102 to IP network 130.Mobile session 802 has path associated with it.The path of mobile session is the path that the grouping of mobile session is passed, such as, between the UE and the IP core network of radio network provider of end user.As shown in Figure 8, the path of mobile session 802 comprises PGW 113, SGW 112 ₁with eNodeB 111 ₁.

TT 227 is configured to pass the path that LTE network 110 determines mobile session 802.TT 227 can initiate mobile session tracking in any suitable way.Be noted that especially UE can have more than one session for it creates (such as, one for voice, one for video, one for VPN etc.).Consequently, the inquiry on a UE IMSI can cause having the several different session returned.Based on the session with Different Strategies (such as, ACL, QoS) of request, may imply that they can by different nodes.

In one embodiment, selectively mobile session tracking is initiated in artificially in any suitable way.Can initiate mobile session tracking in artificially for various reasons, such as, user in response to the problem by the his or her service of report and/or UE calls customer support quantity, using the part etc. as the routine maintenance performed by network technician.In one embodiment, such as, can be used in management system and initiate mobile session tracking spendable using artificial.

Such as, technical staff can select UE from the display list of UE, the concurrent mobile session tracking being used from selected UE.Such as, user (operator in such as network operation center or NOC or manager) can start by the spendable application of management system, the information relevant to the mobile session tracking that will be performed is utilized to fill the application table that is associated (such as, by comprising the IMSI of the UE performing mobile session tracking), and submit to application table to initiate mobile session tracking.Be understandable that, by the artificial initiation using other technology/technique can initiate mobile session tracking.Also will be understood that, any suitable means of the user interface controlled for initiating mobile session tracking can being used.

In one embodiment, optionally automatically mobile session tracking is initiated in any suitable way.Can automatically initiate mobile session tracking because of a variety of causes, such as, do not needed by management system that user's is alternately any.In response to any suitable trigger condition, the automatic initiation of mobile session tracking can be triggered.

Such as, the automatic initiation of mobile session tracking can be initiated at special time, such as management system is configured to periodically perform mobile session tracking (such as, the user report problem of UE, and Service Technicians is the one or more mobile session tracking plan in UE formulation future, to guarantee to deal with problems).Such as, receive request in response to from UE user, the automatic initiation (such as, providing long-range initiation for the ability of the mobile session tracking of their UE to user) of mobile session tracking can be initiated.Such as, in response to from the one or more message of network reception that can to indicate in specific operation condition, network problem or potential problems (such as, congested, link failure, schedule maintenance, conversation shift etc.), the automatic initiation of mobile session tracking can be initiated.Be understandable that, in response to other trigger conditions many, the automatic initiation of mobile session tracking can be initiated.

Mobile session tracking is optionally initiated (such as with any suitable granularity level, whole show for UE moves session, only for the subset of the active session of UE, wherein multiple mobile session is movable to UE, for the mobile session etc. of the multiple UE be associated with one or more user, and its combination).

Use one or more mobile session tracking parameter to initiate mobile session tracking.Mobile session parameter defines the mobile tracking that will be performed.Mobile session tracking parameter at least comprises: the mark (such as, for being performed the IMSI of mobile session tracking) of UE.Mobile session tracking parameter also can comprise other parameter any being suitable for use in the mobile session tracking of definition, such as move the scope of session tracking (such as, for the whole mobile session of UE, subset etc. for the mobile session of UE), the information type needed in mobile session tracking result or wish (such as, the path only passed by mobile session, the state be associated with mobile session and/or statistics, the state be associated with the network element passed by mobile session and/or statistics etc.), use the additional treatments etc. that mobile session tracking result performs, and its combination.Be understandable that, mobile session tracking parameter can comprise any information being applicable to define the mobile session tracking that will perform.

(such as, in any suitable time, in any other suitable format etc.) mobile session tracking parameter can be specified in any suitable way.Such as, mobile session tracking parameter can be specified in the time of initiating to follow the tracks of, when initiating tracking, pre-configured tracking is carried out to use (such as to mobile session tracking parameter, store in advance and have the right to fill mobile session tracking application table when the mobile session tracking of artificial initiation, store in advance and process automatically to initiate mobile session tracking etc.), etc., and its combination.

Be understandable that, the mode in the path of mobile session is determined in the initiation in response to mobile session tracking, is not intended to be confined to the granularity of the mobile session tracking of initiating or initiate the mode of mobile session tracking.

In one embodiment, by receiving mobile session path trace information, and being determined the mobile session path information of mobile session by some or all in the mobile session path trace information of use, following the tracks of the path of mobile session.

Mobile session path trace information is the information being applicable to the mobile session path following the tracks of UE from IP kernel heart net to UE.Mobile session tracking information can be received from any suitable source of such information.

In one embodiment, when initiating mobile session path and following the tracks of, receive mobile session path trace information from the one or more memory devices be associated with the management system performing mobile session tracking.In other embodiments, mobile session path trace information is obtained from the remote data base relevant to the management system performing mobile session tracking or memory device.The mobile session path trace information of reception can be obtained in any suitable way.

The mobile session path trace information received can comprise by for other administrative purposes (such as, perform and be used for other management function of wireless network) the information that obtains of management system, be the information etc. supporting that the object of mobile session path follow-up control obtains by management system, and its combination.The mobile session path trace information received obtains by one or more sources of management system from such information, such as from perform be used for wireless network other management systems one or more of management function obtain, obtain from one or more network elements of wireless network.In response to the part as the status message received from network element the Network finding request initiated by management system, etc. and its combination, the mobile session path trace information of reception can be obtained.

In one embodiment, when initiating mobile session path and following the tracks of, other sources one or more at management system place from this information receive mobile session path trace information (such as, from other management systems one or more of the various management functions of execution wireless network, from one or more network elements of wireless network (such as, in response to the Network finding request initiated by management system, as a part for the status message received from network element, etc.), etc., and its combination).In such execution mode, when initiating mobile session path and following the tracks of (such as, management system perceives at least some and moves session path trace information and need to obtain from the remote source of this information), in response to determine by management system wish can not obtain in management system at the obtainable mobile session path trace information of management system, etc. and its combination time, perform the management system that mobile session path follows the tracks of and can initiate the request of mobile session path trace information.

Determine describing mobile session path trace information in detail in the context of the method in the path of the mobile session of UE in description.

Mobile session path trace information comprises: indicate mobile session by the information in the path of wireless network.Indicate mobile session can be comprised by the information in the path of wireless network: to be suitable for any information provided with any suitable granularity providing path to indicate.Such as, the mobile session path information identifiable design in the path of mobile session is indicated to support eNodeB, SGW and PGW of mobile session.Such as, mobile session path information can comprise the mobile session of instruction by the more detailed information in the path of wireless network (such as, such as identify the one or more RB on the eNodeB supporting mobile session, the SU-1 session of session is moved in support between eNodeB and SGW, the S5/S8 session of session is moved in support between SGW and PGW, the SGi session of session is moved in support between PGW and IP kernel heart net, etc., and its combination).

Mobile session path information can comprise more detailed information that the one or more paths between the network element of mobile session path are associated (such as, physical node and the communication link of SU-1 session is set up between eNodeB and SGW supporting mobile session, physical node and the communication link of S5/S8 session is set up between SGW and PGW supporting mobile session, physical node and the communication link of SGi session is set up between the PGW supporting mobile session and IP kernel heart net, etc., and its combination).Thus, scrutable, indicate mobile session can comprise any suitable level of detail from the high-level instruction of the critical network element supporting mobile session down to the subchannel supported the physics of whole parts of equipment of mobile session and/or logical connectivity, communication link etc. by the mobile session path information in the path of wireless network.

Mobile session path information, except comprise indicate mobile session path information except, any out of Memory can be comprised, the out of Memory be such as associated with mobile session.Such as, mobile session path information can comprise the status data/designator be associated with mobile session, the statistics be associated with mobile session (such as, the duration of mobile session, by the data volume that mobile session sends and/or receives, etc., and its combination), the state be associated with UE and/or statistics, the state be associated with the networking component of the mobile session of support and/or statistics are (such as, the network element that mobile session is passed thereon and/or the network element indirectly provided support for mobile session, interface, reference point, and/or support other element any of mobile session), etc., and its combination.

TT 227 can be configured to impel storage, show and/or propagate mobile session path information.

Can storing mobile session path information in any suitable way, such as in any suitable position, in any other suitable format etc.

Mobile session path information can be shown (such as in any suitable way or in any suitable place, in the public display of the network operation center (NOC) of wireless service provider, on each teller work station of management function performing wireless service provider, etc., and its combination).

Mobile session path information can be shown by any suitable mode describing mobile session path information.

In one embodiment, mobile session path information is shown by showing mobile session path.Mobile session path can show in any suitable way.Such as, mobile session path can be presented on the graphic alphanumeric display of wireless network (such as, by providing coverage diagram in the figure display of wireless network, by give on the graphic alphanumeric display of wireless network the node of mobile session path and link painted, etc., and its combination).Such as, mobile session path by produce and display shows phase with the figure of wireless network and independently moves session path figure and show, and wherein only comprises those network elements and carrying that mobile session path passes.

Mobile session path information can be checked by enabling user, and the more detailed rank selectively successfully accessing mobile session path information (namely, more fine granulation or lower component-level) mode carry out showing (such as, from instruction support the high-level instruction of the critical network element of mobile session down to the subchannel supported the physics of whole parts of equipment of mobile session and/or logical connectivity, communication link, etc. and substantial any content between them).

In one embodiment, undertaken showing mobile session path information by outstanding mobile session path in the figure display of wireless network.In this embodiment, the assembly (such as, node, link etc.) of mobile session path or mobile session path is selectable, thus when being selected by user, presents the additional mobile session path information be associated with mobile session to user.

In one embodiment, when user double-clicks in the figure display of mobile session path, can be triggered by the action of user and show the additional mobile session path information that is associated with mobile session path (such as, the state etc. of the statistics of mobile session, the networking component of network enabled session, and its combination).Such as, when user selects PGW, wherein PGW is indicated to support mobile session in outstanding mode, by the action of user can trigger display with the information supporting mobile session to be associated by described PGW (such as, the geographical position of PGW, which module of PGW supports non-graphic or the figure instruction of mobile session, the information be associated with SGi and/or the S5/S8 session of the mobile session of support, etc., and its combination).

In one embodiment, when user selects S5/S8 session, wherein S5/S8 session is indicated to support mobile session in outstanding mode, the action of user can trigger display provides the basic network foundation structure of S5/S8 session thereon (such as, subchannel on network element, physical communication link, physical communication link, etc., and its combination).

In general, various execution mode, by display and the low level path element be associated by the high-level path element that user interface is selected by user, can make user carry out from high stratification rank path element to low hierarchical levels path element darker " excavating " downwards.

In one embodiment, support " subgraph " of the networking component of mobile session by producing only to comprise and show the subgraph produced, showing mobile session path information.Such as, when the figure figure display of wireless network comprises multiple eNodeB, SGW and PGW, subgraph for mobile session one of will only comprise in these elements each, and the session in these elements between each, thus which network element in outstanding wireless network supports mobile session.In this embodiment, subgraph (such as, simultaneously in a window: in the different piece of the window of display wireless network, in display subgraph object and the new window opened, etc.) can be shown in any suitable way.In this embodiment, with embodiment is the same before, mobile session path or or even the assembly of mobile session path and sub-component (such as, subchannel etc. on physical equipment, physical communication link, physical communication link) can be selectable, thus when user selects, present the additional mobile session path information be associated with mobile session to user.

From these embodiments, be understandable that, can provide to the display of the additional information be associated with mobile session path (such as in any suitable manner, upgrade in the display window comprising mobile session path information, open the new window comprising mobile session path information, etc., and its combination).

To describe and relating generally to of illustrating shows mobile session path information in a graphic format although basic here, be understandable that, can by non-graphic form show in mobile session path information some or all.

Many modes that can show network related information and therefore can show mobile session path information are all understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

Can by mobile session path Information Communication to one or more assembly.Such as, can one or more database be given to store mobile session path Information Communication.Such as, can by mobile session path Information Communication to one or more displays of management system, one or more user is given (such as by mobile session path information displaying, propagate to the common display in NOC, propagate to one or more Local or Remote work stations of NOC, etc., and its combination).Such as, can other management system one or more be given to carry out storing mobile session path Information Communication, display etc.Mobile session path information can be propagated in any suitable way.

In one embodiment, TT 227 can be configured to the management function initiating to be used for mobile session.Especially, can be mobile session path, mobile session, UE etc. and its combination, initiate at least one management function.

Can in any suitable way, manually and/or automatically, initiate at least one management function.Can use and follow the tracks of from mobile session path the mobile session path information determined and initiate at least one management function.

At least one management function can comprise any suitable management function.

In one embodiment, the additional treatments to mobile session path information can be performed.Such as, the additional treatments of mobile session path information can be performed mobile session path information and high layer information (such as, IP layer information, application layer message etc.) to be correlated with.Such as, the additional treatments of mobile session path information can be performed mobile session path information and low level information (such as, physical layer) to be correlated with.Be understandable that, the process of other type is feasible.

In one embodiment, one or more Operations, Administration and Maintenance (OAM) action (such as, tracking and testing, ping test etc.) can be performed, and then can analyze relevant OAM result.

In one embodiment, the mobile session path be associated with mobile session can be collected to add up.

In one embodiment, can perform and one or morely reconfigure action (such as, change strategy, change packet filtering rule, distribute additional bandwidth, reconfigure equipment, dispose optional equipment etc., and its combination).

In one embodiment, one or more maintenance action (such as, maintenance or replacement equipment etc.) can be performed.

(such as, in order to obtain the more information for determining whether there is problem, the more information in the source for determining the problem identified can be obtained for any suitable object, in order to correct the problem of identification, and similar purpose), etc., and its combination, initiate at least one management function.

Fig. 7 describes an execution mode of the method for performing following function.In one embodiment, following function comprises the path determining mobile session in wireless network.

In step 702, method 700 starts.

In step 704, the identifier (such as, IMSI or other suitable identifier) be associated with UE is used to determine the IP address of UE.

In step 706, the IP address of UE is used to determine the PGW supporting mobile session.Support that the PGW of the mobile session of UE determines by with under type: (1) determines one in multiple subnets of the IP kernel heart net belonging to IP address of UE, and (2) determine that the subnet belonging to IP address of which PGW and UE of wireless network is associated.Therefore, the determination of the PGW supporting mobile session is also provided support for the instruction of the SGi session of the mobile session of the UE between IP kernel heart net and PGW.

In step 708, the SGW list be associated with PGW and the identifier (such as, IMSI or other suitable identifier) be associated with UE is used to determine to support the SGW of mobile session.The SGW list be associated with PGW comprises the SGW be associated with PGW by each S5/S8 session.By determining that the identifier of which SGW and UE in SGW list is associated, from SGW list, determine the SGW supporting mobile session.Therefore, the determination of the SGW supporting mobile session is also provided in the instruction of the S5/S8 session supported the PGW of mobile session and support the mobile session supporting UE between the SGW of mobile session.

In step 710, by the list (such as, S1-u session) that is used in the session that SGW provides and the identifier (such as, IMSI or other suitable identifier) be associated with UE, determine (and therefore, being connected with the UE) eNodeB supporting mobile session.The session list (such as, S1-u session) that being used in, SGW provides determines the eNodeB supported by SGW.Then, by determining that the identifier of which eNodeB and UE is associated, determine in the eNodeB supported by the SGW of the mobile session supporting UE.Therefore, the determination of the eNodeB supporting mobile session is also provided in the instruction of the S1-u session supported the SGW of mobile session and support the mobile session supporting UE between the eNodeB of mobile session.

In step 712, method 700 terminates.

Although determine that mobile session is described by the path of wireless network and is illustrated about use customizing messages, but be understandable that, any out of Memory being applicable to follow the tracks of mobile session path by using can determine the path of mobile session by wireless network.

Although describe and illustrate be the customizing messages determining to be associated with mobile session (such as, indicate mobile session by the instruction in the path of wireless network), but be understandable that, (1) additional information in the path indicating mobile session by wireless network can be determined, and/or (2) can be determined (such as, use the Using statistics be associated with mobile session, the statistics etc. be associated with UE, and its combination) additional information (such as, the additional information be associated with mobile session, the additional information etc. be associated with UE).

Although mainly describe about the path of the single mobile session determining UE and illustrate, be understandable that, when the multiple mobile session of UE is movable, can be each mobile session manner of execution 700 of UE.Can perform in any suitable way and multiple paths of the multiple mobile session of UE are followed the tracks of, such as, in response to the initiation to the multiple path trace requests for UE, repeatedly call method 700, in response to the initiation to a path trace request for UE, repeatedly call method 700, for determining one time, multiple path call method 700(such as, amending method 700 to support the determination to multiple mobile session in some steps or Overall Steps of method 700), etc., and its combination.

Although here about using single management system to provide mobile session tracking ability (exemplary, MS 140) mainly describe and illustrate, but the function of mobile session tracking ability can realize by distributed way, thus the function of mobile session tracking ability can in multiple management system (such as, network management system, component management system etc., and its combination) upper, wireless network network element (such as, PGW, MME, PCRF etc., and its combination) upper, etc. and its combination on distribute.

fair management device function/instrument

FMT 228 provides the various fair management mechanism being suitable for being used by mobile subscriber net control resource.U.S. Patent application the _ _ _ _ number (the attorney ALU/806290 of CO-PENDING, name is called " for managing the method and apparatus that mobile resources uses ") the various execution modes of FMT 228 are described in more detail, with way of reference, it is all incorporated herein.

Simply, the suitable resource (such as, bandwidth) that FMT 228 implements such as to be defined by service-level agreement (SLA) etc. for client uses.Fair management device is implemented suitable bandwidth by any one in various implementation system and is used.Fair management device is exercisable, and to implement the suitable resource consumption grade be associated with various user, user's group, client, third party Online Shopping side etc., wherein these grades are defined by agreement or acceptable practice.

In various embodiments, FMT 228 carries out operating to identify and is experiencing congested or may experience congested one or more network elements in the near future.

In one embodiment, FMT 228 passes through the detection of warning (such as, the warning be associated with network element, the warning etc. that the path be connected with same network element is associated), by the control message that receives from other module one or more (such as, other instrument of MS 140, other management system, or other suitable source any of such control message) etc. and its combination, recognition network element congested.In one embodiment, FMT 228 receives virtual movement monitoring Network Based and the warning triggered.

In one embodiment, in response to the service problem report received from mobile subscriber, FMT 228 recognition network element congested.Such as, make a phone call to complain that the mobile subscriber differed from about service quality (QoS) or Quality of experience (QoE) can provide the telephone number of UE, the IMSI number that network manager can use described telephone number searching to be associated with UE, wherein IMSI number is captured at MS 140 place, and by MS 140 for determining the network element of the session now or in the past supporting described UE.In such execution mode, call TT 227 to follow the tracks of the mobile session path of the UE of complaint mobile subscriber (such as, based on the IMSI of UE, description as relevant to TT 227), wherein move session path and provide present or the instruction of the network element of the session of the UE of the mobile subscriber of support complaint in the past.In one embodiment, one or more mechanism of FMT 228 are configured to be applicable to provide other management systems one or more of the information of various enforcement function to communicate with being used for receiving.

support the embodiment of the environment of various execution mode

In general, various execution mode can enable the user of user in such as network operation center (NOC) utilize terminal or have other teller work station of graphical user interface (GUI) and management system/software carries out alternately, and thus by display and the low level path element be associated by the high-level path element that user interface is selected by user, user can be made downwards to carry out from high stratification rank path element to low hierarchical levels path element darker " excavating ".

In one embodiment, support " subgraph " of the networking component of mobile session and show the subgraph produced to show mobile session path by producing only to comprise.Such as, the figure display of wireless network comprises multiple eNodeB, SGW and PGW, subgraph for mobile session only can comprise one in these elements each, and the session between these elements each, thus which network element of outstanding wireless network supports mobile session.

In this embodiment, subgraph (such as, simultaneously in a window: in the different piece of the window of display wireless network, in display subgraph object and the new window opened, etc.) can be shown in any suitable way.In this embodiment, with execution mode is the same before, mobile session path or or even the assembly of mobile session path and sub-component (such as, subchannel etc. on physical equipment, physical communication link, physical communication link) can be selectable, thus when user selects, present the additional mobile session path information be associated with mobile session to user.

The implementation of various method produces one or more path alternatively, supports the logic that the underlying transport element in one or more path and various agreement discussed here, hardware, software, firmware, territory, subnet, network element and/or sub-element connect and/or physical representation.Any one in these physics and/or logical expressions can visually represent in the context of graphical user interface (GUI).In addition, various between these physics and/or logical expressions also can visually represent with communicating alternately, comprise the expression being restricted to specific criteria, such as these represent " needing support path ", " needing support client/client ", " being associated with single client computer/client " etc.Such diagrammatic representation and associated picture provide foundation structure view (namely, from the angle of one or more transfer element) or the service view (namely, from the angle of one or more service) of network with static or dynamical fashion.

Exemplarily, the computer being applicable to perform function described herein can comprise: processor elements (such as, CPU (CPU) and/or other suitable processor), memory (such as, random-access memory (ram), read-only memory (ROM) etc.), administration module/processor, with various input-output apparatus (such as, user input device (such as keyboard, keypad, mouse etc.), with user's output equipment (such as display, loud speaker etc.), input port, output port, receiver/transmitter (such as, network connects or other suitable receiver/transmitter type) and memory device is (such as, hard disk drive, compact disc drive, CD drive etc.)).In one embodiment, the computer software code be associated with the method calling each execution mode can be loaded in memory, and performs by processor the function realizing above-mentioned discussion here.With call each execution mode the computer software code that is associated of method can be stored on computer-readable recording medium, such as RAM memory, magnetic or CD-ROM driver or tape etc.

It should be noted that the function that describes and illustrate can realize in the combination of software and/or software and hardware here, such as, use all-purpose computer, one or more specific integrated circuit (ASIC) and/or any other hardware equivalent.

Suppose that some steps discussed as software approach can perform within hardware here, such as, as the circuit with processor cooperation step to perform various method.Function/componentry described herein can realize by computer program, wherein when by computer disposal, and the operation of computer instruction Adjustable calculation machine, thus call method described herein and/or technology or other content is provided.The instruction of calling creative method can be stored in tangible fixed or movable media, transmitted by the data flow in tangible or invisible broadcast or other signal-bearing media, and/or be stored in and carry out in the memory of the computing equipment operated according to instruction.

Although relate generally to managerial ability be here described for the execution mode managing LTE wireless network and illustrate, but be understandable that, managerial ability can be used for the wireless network managing other type, including, but not limited to, the 4G wireless network of other type, 3G wireless network, 2.5G wireless network.2G wireless network etc., and its combination.

In such as managerial ability for managing in an execution mode of code division multiple access (CDMA) 2000 Evolution-Data optimization (EVDO) network, managerial ability can support the network management from IP kernel heart net to the base transceiver station be connected with UE (BTS).

In such as managerial ability for managing in an execution mode of universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS) network, managerial ability can support the management from IP kernel heart net to the network of the eNodeB be connected with UE.

In such as managerial ability for managing in an execution mode of general packet radio service (GPRS) network, managerial ability can support the management from IP kernel heart net to the network of the base transceiver station be connected with UE (BTS).

Be understandable that, because managerial ability can be used for the dissimilar wireless network of management and utilization different type network element, therefore can read the LTE proprietary term hereinafter describing managerial ability on an LTE network used herein more generally.Such as, can more generally read as core network gateway with reference to (and similarly, the PDSN in CDMA 2000EVDO network, the SGSN etc. in UMTS/GPRS network) the PGW of LTE network here.Such as, here the reference of the SGW to LTE network (and similarly, the RNC in CDMA 2000EVDO and UMTS network, the BSC etc. in GPRS network) can more generally be read as radio network controller.Such as, can more generally read as Radio Access Controller the reference of the eNodeB of LTE network (and similarly, the BTS in CDMA 2000EVDO and GPRS network, the eNodeB in UMTS network) here.Similarly, other LTE proprietary term of managerial ability in description LTE network context used herein can also be read more generally.

In various embodiments, use by New Jersey not Leishan (Murray Hill) Alcatel-Lucent manufacture 7750 service routers or 7705 service aggregating routers (SAR) in one or all to provide enhancement service.

7750 service routers are suitable for promoting and support the path between a large amount of eNodeB and SGW and between one or more 7705SAR and SGW.

7705SAR is suitable for multiple eNodeB to be aggregated in a focus, and business relaying is returned 7750 service routers or SGW.Namely, 7705SAR concentrates and business/path between to be supported in the eNodeB of polymerization and 7750 service routers or SGW one or all.

Any one in 7750 service routers and 7705SAR can be included in above-mentioned various network topologies of discussing about each accompanying drawing.Such as, 7750 service routers can be used for the service aware routers/switch realizing each accompanying drawing.In addition, the various networks that describe in accompanying drawing can be revised to comprise the one or more 7705SAR being polymerized the multiple eNodeB be connected with service aware routers/switch.

The service-aware manager (SAM) of the model 5620 manufactured by Alcatel-Lucent can be used to realize according to any one network manager in various execution mode.5620SAM realizes the various management functions being applicable to the network operation center (NOC) of the one or more communication networks such as supporting such as radio telecommunication network.5620SAM provides the up-to-date view of in the element and sub-element forming managed network.All these elements can be found by discussing in detail above by 5620SAM.

Usual implementation for Virtual network operator is converted to service-aware management system from existing network management system, can exemplarily comprise, (1) existing network infrastructure is revised to comprise new function element, thus complete the amendment of the target/needs to client, such as increase such as one or more SGW and they separately eNodeB at least partially between 7750 service routers and/or 7705SAR switching device; (2) the various configurations finding to be associated with the formation all of network elements of network, sub-element and link, state/operation and link information; (3) network infrastructure is relevant to each path supported in network; And (4) use the management tool based on path discussed here to carry out supervising the network foundation structure.

Although describe and illustrated the various execution modes in conjunction with the present invention's instruction here, those skilled in the art can easily design still in conjunction with the execution mode of other changes many of these instructions.

Claims

1., for determining the method in the path of the mobile session of subscriber equipment (UE), wherein said subscriber equipment has identifier associated with it, and described method comprises:

The identifier be associated with UE is used to determine the IP address of UE;

The IP address of UE is used to determine the PDN Gateway (PGW) supporting mobile session;

The list using the multiple SGW be associated with PGW and the identifier be associated with UE, determine the gateway (SGW) supporting mobile session; And

The list using the carrying supported by SGW and the identifier be associated with UE, determine the eNodeB supporting mobile session.

2. method according to claim 1, wherein uses the IP address of UE to determine to support that the PGW of mobile session comprises:

The IP address of use UE determines one in the multiple subnets be associated with UE; And

The subnet be associated with UE is used to determine to support in multiple PGW of mobile session.

3. method according to claim 1, it is one or more that the identifier be wherein associated with UE comprises in following content: the IMSI of user's name, UE and sequence number.

4. method according to claim 1, wherein uses the list of multiple SGW be associated with PGW and the identifier be associated with UE to determine to support that the SGW of mobile session comprises:

Determine by supporting multiple carryings that the PGW of mobile session supports;

The SGW list be associated with PGW is determined based on the carrying supported by PGW; And

Use the identifier of UE, determine from the SGW list be associated with PGW the SGW supporting mobile session.

5. method according to claim 1, wherein uses the list of the carrying supported by SGW and the identifier that is associated with UE is determined to support that the eNodeB of mobile session comprises:

Determine by supporting multiple carryings that the SGW of mobile session supports; And

The identifier of UE is used to determine to support the eNodeB of mobile words session from the carrying supported by SGW.

6. method according to claim 1, the path of wherein moving session is the first path that first of UE moves session, and described method comprises further:

Use the identifier that is associated with UE, determine second of UE the second path of moving session.

7. method according to claim 1, comprises further:

Produce and be configured to for showing the graph image diagrammatic representation of mobile session by the wireless network in the determination path of wireless network being carried out show; And

Graph image is propagated at least one equipment being arranged to display graphics image.

8. method according to claim 1, comprises further:

Initiate to be used at least one in the reconfiguring at least partially of operate/manage/safeguard (OAM) operation of mobile session and wireless network.

9., for determining the equipment in the path of the mobile session of subscriber equipment (UE), wherein subscriber equipment has identifier associated with it, and described equipment comprises:

For the device using the identifier be associated with UE to determine the IP address of UE;

The device of the PDN Gateway (PGW) of mobile session is supported for using the IP address of UE to determine;

For the identifier using the list of the multiple SGW be associated with PGW and be associated with UE, determine the device of the gateway (SGW) supporting mobile session; And

The device of the eNodeB supporting mobile session is determined for the identifier using the list of the carrying supported by SGW and be associated with UE.